Earlier last week the main opposition Malawi Congress Party (MCP) rebuffed President Peter Mutharika’s state banquet invitation which was extended to its Member of Parliament (MPs). The MPs said the banquet was too expensive for a country that should be observing austerity measures due to the hardships the citizens were going through.
The head of state had slated the banquet at Kamuzu Palace, Wednesday’s evening, July 1, 2015 in the capital Lilongwe aimed at celebrating the passing of the 2015/2016 National Budget which faced huddles before Malawi Parliament approved it.
Finance Minister to Dr Goodall Gondwe says, Capital Hill spent about K250 million during last year’s celebrations, but said the budget has been increased due to the coming in of foreign officials such as Deputy President of Kenya William Samoei arap Ruto and President Lungu from neighboring country Zambia.
Many Malawians might know William Samoei arap Ruto because of his case in the International Criminal Court (ICC) currently at an advanced stage. However, it has been faced with challenges especially concerning withdrawal of key prosecution witnesses and the dropping of all same charges against his boss Kenyatta.
Goodall Gondwe said they have also sent invitation to all opposition party leaders. He cautioned that it will be a sad development if one decides not to attend the events that mark our commemorations for independence.
“This government is looking for unity among all Malawians and it is a function that everyone is supposed to come regardless of any affiliations,” said Gondwe.
